Antique Greek Hydria with Classical Figures Color Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting a monumental ancient Greek hydria decorated with classical figures and elaborate ornamental bands, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s important work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive large-format plate presents a single monumental hydria, the characteristic ancient Greek vessel traditionally used for carrying, storing and pouring water.
The vessel is dominated by a broad, almost uninterrupted black body, creating a particularly bold and graphic composition. Across the shoulder runs a red-figure narrative scene with several classical figures rendered in terracotta against the deep black ground.
Immediately below the figural scene is an exceptionally decorative continuous frieze composed of repeating palmette and rosette-like motifs. The intricate terracotta ornament forms a striking contrast with the restrained black lower body of the vessel.
Further palmette decoration encircles the neck, while smaller ornamental borders articulate the mouth and shoulder. The restrained palette of black and terracotta red closely evokes the appearance of ancient Greek red-figure pottery.
The hydria is distinguished by its multiple handles. Genick includes precise archaeological line drawings around the upper part of the vessel documenting their unusual profiles and construction, reflecting the scholarly archaeological purpose of the original publication.
The monumental silhouette, extensive black field and finely detailed ornamental frieze give this plate an especially strong decorative presence. Its restrained composition makes it particularly suitable for both classical and contemporary interiors.
The print originates from the second edition of Albert Genick’s important publication on Greek ceramics, published by Ernst Wasmuth in Berlin in 1883. The complete work comprised 36 color lithographic plates, including four double-page plates, illustrating amphorae, kraters, hydriae, kantharoi, kylikes, bowls, rhyta and other examples of ancient Greek ceramic art.
The lithographs were produced by the Berlin printing establishment Hein & Mosler. Albert Genick (1837–1906), a Berlin-trained architect, became particularly known for his precise graphic documentation of ancient ceramics. This publication is regarded as his principal work. Complete examples are rare, and individual plates from the series are increasingly difficult to find.
Creator: Albert Genick (1837–1906)
Publisher: Ernst Wasmuth, Berlin
Printer: Hein & Mosler, Berlin
Plate: XXX
Title on plate: Hydria
Date: 1883
Edition: Second edition
Technique: Color lithograph
Origin: Germany
Sheet size: Approximately 68 x 46 cm (26.8 x 18.1 inches)
Orientation: Portrait
Period: Late 19th Century
Style: Neoclassical / Archaeological Revival
Condition: Very good antique condition. Strong black and terracotta coloring with the figural and ornamental details remaining well preserved. Light age-related toning with scattered minor foxing and spotting, principally visible in the surrounding margins. Minor wear and slight irregularity along the sheet edges consistent with age. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
An original antique lithograph printed in 1883, not a modern reproduction.
The print is offered unframed. Any framed or interior images, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.
Additional companion plates from Albert Genick’s series are available separately.
Keywords: Albert Genick, Greek hydria, ancient Greek hydria, Greek water vessel, Greek pottery, Greek ceramics, Greek vase, hydria print, classical figures, red figure pottery, Greek pottery print, palmette ornament, Greek ornament, archaeological print, archaeological drawing, classical antiquity, ancient Greece, Greek art, ancient vessels, classical vase, neoclassical decor, Archaeological Revival, archaeological illustration, antique lithograph, color lithograph, ceramic art, classical art, Greek Revival, Grand Tour, Ernst Wasmuth, Hein Mosler, Berlin 1883, 19th century print, museum style decor
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